* Unseasonable Warmth Today

* Highs will reach 70°F across Murphy, NC and North Georgia today.

* Residents are encouraged to enjoy the outdoor conditions before a return to overcast skies.

* Sources: 2026-02-16 | https://www.foxweather.com/local-weather/north-carolina/murphy

* Lake Hiwassee Protection Movement

* A grassroots petition with 4,000+ signatures was presented to Cherokee County Commissioners.

* The goal is to secure a permanent resolution protecting public lands from development.

* Sources: 2026-02-16 | https://mountaintrue.org/good-news-a-campaign-to-save-public-lands-in-cherokee-county-from-development-is-working/

* Union County Multi-Agency Safety Drill

* Union County Schools partnered with Fire, EMS, and 911 for a comprehensive safety exercise.

* The drill focused on inter-departmental coordination and emergency readiness.

* Sources: 2026-02-16 | https://www.unioncountyga.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=114

* 2026 Farmers Market Planning

* Returning vendor applications for the 2026 season open March 13th.

* Forms will be available at the Union County Cannery.

* Sources: 2026-02-16 | https://www.unioncountyga.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=113

* Gun Range Challenge Coins

* The Union County Gun Range has released official collectible challenge coins.

* Coins are available for purchase directly at the range.

* Sources: 2026-02-16 | https://www.unioncountyga.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=115

Appalachia Daily Update is a service of River Run Digital. We provide hyper-local news for Murphy, North Carolina, and the surrounding mountain communities. For more information or to support our work, visit https://podcasts.riverrun.digital/adu.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit appalachiadaily.substack.com

We kick off the third week of February with a clear weather window and a focus on the local economy. From storefront grants in Murphy to high-stakes civic meetings in Blairsville, here is what you need to know for Monday, February 16, 2026.

* Mountain Weather Outlook A sunny start to the week with highs reaching 54°F today and 58°F on Tuesday.

* Sources:

* 2026-02-16 | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Murphy&state=NC

* New Business Monday: Murphy and Blairsville Murphy: Main Street Murphy highlights the PRONTO incentive grants, which continue to fund aesthetic and structural improvements for downtown businesses. Blairsville: The Union County Chamber is reporting record interest in upcoming networking events as local business membership grows.

* Sources:

* 2026-02-13 | https://www.townofmurphync.com/main-street-murphy

* 2026-02-15 | https://members.visitblairsvillega.com/events/calendar

* Civic Alert: Tonight’s Meetings Cherokee County: Commissioners meeting at 6:30 PM at 75 Peachtree Street, Murphy. Union County: Rescheduled Short-Term Rental Board meeting at 5:00 PM at the Blairsville Community Center.

* Sources:

* 2026-02-16 | https://www.cherokeecounty-nc.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=984&month=2&year=2026&day=16&calType=0

* 2026-02-16 | https://www.unioncountyga.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=893&month=2&year=2026&day=16&calType=0

Appalachia Daily Update is a service of River Run Digital. We provide hyper-local news for Murphy, North Carolina, and the surrounding mountain communities. For more information or to support our work, visit https://podcasts.riverrun.digital/adu.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit appalachiadaily.substack.com

Good morning and happy Valentine’s Day to everyone across our corner of the mountains. If you are looking to get outdoors today, the Piney Knob Trails in Murphy are the perfect destination. The weather is holding up beautifully for a Saturday morning hike or mountain bike ride. With over thirteen miles of professionally built singletrack, there is plenty of room to explore and get some fresh air. It is a fantastic way to start the day before the rain arrives on Sunday.

For those who might have forgotten to make evening reservations, you are in luck. The Murphy Ballroom is hosting a Valentine’s Fundraiser today, open to the public. Their Day of Dance kicks off at three thirty this afternoon. You can drop by to enjoy the music, hit the dance floor, and support local arts without the pressure of a formal, sit-down dinner.

Over in Union County, the Blairsville Civic Center is hosting a special Valentine’s Edition of their Community Line Dance. The music starts at six thirty tonight. Instructors will be on hand to help beginners learn the steps. This makes it a fun, stress-free way to spend the evening with your neighbors, even if you have two left feet.

If your weekend plans involve a scenic drive, please be aware of a road closure in the Pisgah National Forest. Forest Service Road five thousand, also known as Wash Creek Road, is closed to through traffic. The closure stretches from the Wash Creek Horse Camp up to the Blue Ridge Parkway for safety and maintenance. You will need to plan an alternate route toward the Gap if you are heading east.

Finally, we highly recommend taking advantage of the weather today. We are looking at a high of sixty-one degrees with a pleasant mix of sun and clouds. Sunday will bring an eighty percent chance of heavy rain that is expected to linger into Monday. Make sure to get your outdoor chores and activities done today while the skies are clear.

This is a community-supported update. For more local news and daily broadcasts, visit our podcast home. https://podcasts.riverrun.digital/adu

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit appalachiadaily.substack.com

Soundcheck Friday: 65 and Out We kick off the weekend with a powerful new release from local songwriter D. Wayne Anthony. His latest track, “65 and Out,” bridges the gap between the historical struggles of coal mining and the modern reality of digital layoffs. It is a gritty folk-rock anthem that captures the frustration of being “cast out to the pines” after a lifetime of work. You can listen to the track now on the Riverrun Digital music platform.

Weekend Gig Guide: Copper Basin & Murphy The local music scene is active starting tonight. In Copperhill, Rusted Melody brings their high-energy set to the Copper Basin Brewstillery. Across the line in Murphy, Cody King takes the stage at The Toasted Lion.

The music continues Saturday with Gabe Myers playing an acoustic set at the Brewstillery and Justin Farrington performing at The Toasted Lion. For those heading toward Asheville, the Bluegrass First Class festival is in full swing at the Crowne Plaza, featuring heavy hitters like Seth Mulder & Midnight Run.

Community Happenings: Second Saturday Downtown Murphy hosts its monthly “Second Saturday Shop & Sip” tomorrow, February 14th. From 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, residents can enjoy live buskers performing on street corners while visiting local shops. It is a great opportunity to grab a last-minute Valentine’s gift while supporting local businesses.

Weather Outlook Expect typical mountain weather for Friday with a high of 52 degrees and some mist. Saturday looks clearer with temperatures staying in the mid-50s, making it a solid day for walking around downtown.

Sources:

* Riverrun Digital

* 2026-02-12 | https://music.Riverrun.digital/65-and-Out

* Escape to Blue Ridge

* 2026-02-12 | https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/february-events-2026

* Blue Ridge Music NC

* 2026-02-12 | https://www.blueridgemusicnc.com/event/bluegrass-first-class/2026-02-13/

* Town of Murphy

* 2026-02-12 | https://www.townofmurphync.com/main-street-murphy/page/events

* Weather Channel

* 2026-02-12 | https://weather.com/weather/today/l/28906

Appalachia Daily Update (ADU) is your hyper-local source for news and events in the Murphy, NC area and beyond. Stay connected to your community by subscribing to our daily briefings and following us on social media. Take care of your neighbors, and they will take care of you. Listen to the full podcast at https://podcasts.riverrun.digital/adu.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit appalachiadaily.substack.com

Morning Safety: Black Ice Advisory Morning travelers in Murphy and surrounding areas should use caution on bridges and shaded roadways. Overnight lows of 31°F have likely caused freezing of standing water from yesterday’s heavy rains. Temperatures are expected to rebound to a high of 50°F with sunny skies today.

* Sources:

* 2026-02-11 | https://support.google.com/websearch/answer/13687874

* 2026-02-12 | https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Murphy&state=NC

Hero Update: Six Credited in Windy Ridge Rescue New details from Fannin County identify six first responders—three deputies and three firefighters—involved in the heroic life-saving rescue of two residents during a recent house fire on Windy Ridge Road.

* Sources:

* 2026-02-03 | https://www.thenewsobserver.com/local-news-newsletter/fannin-firefighters-rescue-two-saturday-blaze

STAR Students Banquet Tonight The Union County Chamber of Commerce will honor top academic achievers tonight at the STAR Students Banquet. The event begins at 6:00 PM at the Union County Community Center in Blairsville.

Sources: 2026-02-12 | https://members.visitblairsvillega.com/events/details/an-evening-with-the-stars-2026-143215

Cherokee Schools Superintendent to Retire Cherokee County Schools Superintendent Keevin Woody has announced his retirement effective June 30, 2026. The Board of Education will begin the process of seeking a successor for the district’s top leadership role.

* Sources:

* 2026-02-11 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/local/quick-reads-197

Sit & Knit Group Meeting The Extension Community Association’s fiber arts group meets today from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Extension Meeting Room on Connahetta Street in Murphy. All skill levels are welcome.

* Sources:

* 2026-02-12 | https://cherokee.ces.ncsu.edu/event/1725911170/eca-sit-knit-group/

Appalachia Daily Update is a service of River Run Digital. We provide hyper-local news for Murphy, North Carolina, and the surrounding mountain communities. For more information or to support our work, visit https://podcasts.riverrun.digital/adu

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit appalachiadaily.substack.com

Murphy Weather: Rain Followed by Freeze

Grab the rain gear for Wednesday. Murphy is seeing a 99% chance of light rain today with a high of 55°F. However, residents should prepare for a cold snap tonight as temperatures drop to a low of 31°F under clearing skies.

Sources: 2026-02-11 | https://support.google.com/websearch/answer/13687874

Hometown Heroes: Fannin Fire Rescue

Fannin County firefighters are being credited with a life-saving rescue on Windy Ridge Road. Crews responded to a Saturday night house fire where they successfully rescued two residents, one of whom was on oxygen and unable to escape unassisted.

Sources: 2026-02-03 | https://www.thenewsobserver.com/local-news-newsletter/fannin-firefighters-rescue-two-saturday-blaze

Community Spotlight: DAV Drivers Needed

DAV Chapter 28 in Blue Ridge is seeking volunteer drivers to help local veterans reach their medical appointments. Volunteers must have a clean driving record and a desire to support the veteran community.

Sources: 2026-02-03 | https://www.thenewsobserver.com/local-news-newsletter/veterans-need-driving-help

Blairsville Neighbor Hits $29k Jackpot

Luck was in the air in Blairsville this past Sunday. A local resident won $29,004 while playing the “Max Treasure’s Ancient Adventures” game on the Georgia Lottery mobile app.

Sources: 2026-02-09 | https://www.galottery.com/content/portal/en/media-center/pressreleaseinput/2026/february/15-million-scratcher-win-and-1-million-powerball-win-for-georgia-lottery-players.html

Civic Update: Ranger/Bellview Fire Merger

A community meeting is scheduled for February 19th at the Bellview Community Center to discuss the proposed merger of the Ranger and Bellview Fire Departments. The move aims to improve local emergency response and resource management.

Sources: 2026-02-04 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/classified/legals

Appalachia Daily Update is a service of River Run Digital. We provide hyper-local news for Murphy, North Carolina, and the surrounding mountain communities. For more information or to support our work, visit

https://www.riverrun.digital

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit appalachiadaily.substack.com

Cherokee County Sheriff TransitionChief Deputy Justin Jacobs has officially assumed leadership of the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office following the resignation of the previous sheriff. The local Republican Executive Committee is currently in the process of identifying a recommendation for a permanent successor to present to the Board of Commissioners within the next month.

Sources:2026-02-07 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/local-regional-news/chief-deputy-jacobs-leading-cherokee-county-sheriffs-office-while-replacement

Fannin County Civic UpdateThe Fannin County Board of Commissioners will hold its regular session tonight in Blue Ridge. The meeting is scheduled for 5:30 PM at the courthouse in the Jury Assembly Room. Public attendance is encouraged for those wishing to stay informed on local zoning and infrastructure projects.

Sources:2026-02-10 | https://fannincountyga.com/events/

Community Spotlight: Blairsville SuperfoodsBusiness owners and residents in Union County gathered today for the “Lunch & Leads” event. Ann Marie Stanczyk provided an educational session on the benefits of superfoods, focusing on community health and professional networking.

Sources:2026-02-10 | https://members.visitblairsvillega.com/events/details/lunch-leads-february-2026-142517

Clay County Youth & Blue Ridge ArtsIn Hayesville, the 4-H Rockin’ Bobbins sewing club meets tonight to teach traditional Appalachian crafts to local youth. Meanwhile, in Blue Ridge, Cheryl Engledow continues her residency at the Art Center, showcasing the vibrant fine arts scene of Fannin County.

Sources:2026-02-10 | https://clay.ces.ncsu.edu/2026-02-10 | https://www.blueridgemountains.com/events/

Appalachia Daily Update is your source for hyper-local news and community spirit in the mountains. We focus on the neighbors, events, and stories that make our home unique. Take care of your neighbors, and they will take care of you. https://www.riverrun.digital

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit appalachiadaily.substack.com

Sheriff Vacancy Declared in Cherokee County

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners met in a special session on Saturday afternoon to formally declare a vacancy in the Office of the Sheriff. This follows the resignation of Dustin Smith, which took effect Friday. Chief Deputy Justin Jacobs will lead the office in the interim while the Cherokee County Republican Party Executive Committee prepares a recommendation for a permanent replacement to serve the remainder of the term.

New Business Monday: Piper Outdoors

In our weekly business spotlight, we are highlighting the recent expansion of Piper Outdoors in Blairsville. As we approach the spring season, their focus on creating cohesive indoor and outdoor living spaces is a welcome addition for homeowners looking to “spruce up” their mountain retreats.

Project Chimps Community Outreach

The 230-acre chimpanzee sanctuary in Morganton/Blue Ridge recently hosted a public Q&A session to engage with local residents. The sanctuary continues to be a point of interest for the community, providing a home for former research chimpanzees and offering educational programs and transparency regarding their operations.

Early Voting Guide

Early voting for the March primary officially kicks off this Thursday, February 12th. Residents of Cherokee County can cast their ballots at the Board of Elections office located at 40 Peachtree Street in Murphy. Polls are open from 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM on weekdays.

Sources:

2026-02-09 | https://weather.gov2026-02-07 | https://www.cherokeescout.com/local-regional-news/chief-deputy-jacobs-leading-cherokee-county-sheriffs-office-while-replacement2026-02-07 | https://www.cherokeecounty-nc.gov/calendar.aspx?CID=142026-02-03 | https://www.thenewsobserver.com/news2026-02-09 | https://www.cherokeecounty-nc.gov/274/Board-of-Elections

Appalachia Daily Update is a hyper-local news service dedicated to the residents of the tri-state mountain region. We focus on the stories that matter most to our neighbors. For more information and updates, visit https://awww.riverrun.digital

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit appalachiadaily.substack.com

Weather & Safety: A Frozen StartNews Date: 2026-02-07Saturday brings a sharp chill to Cherokee County with wind chills hitting the teens. While the sun will be out, temperatures won’t climb much past 39°F. Local drivers are urged to watch for patchy ice in shaded areas.

Public Safety: Heroic Rescue in FanninNews Date: 2026-02-03Firefighters in Fannin County saved two lives during a residential structure fire on Windy Ridge Road this week. One resident, who was on oxygen, was unable to evacuate until crews arrived. Both residents were treated for smoke inhalation.

Sources:2026-02-03 | https://www.thenewsobserver.com/local-news-newsletter/fannin-firefighters-rescue-two-saturday-blaze

Community: Driving for DAVNews Date: 2026-02-03The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Chapter 28 in Blue Ridge is in urgent need of volunteer drivers. These volunteers ensure local veterans can reach their medical appointments. No special license is required beyond a clean driving record and a desire to help.

Sources:2026-02-03 | https://www.thenewsobserver.com/local-news-newsletter/veterans-need-driving-help

Event: Murphy Riverwalk WorkdayNews Date: 2026-02-07Today, February 7, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, MountainTrue is hosting a volunteer workday at the Murphy Riverwalk. The focus is on removing invasive plant species like Chinese privet to help restore the local ecosystem.

Sources:2026-02-07 | https://mountaintrue.org/event/invasive-plant-removal-workday-near-murphy-nc-at-the-murphy-riverwalk-following/

Trail Spotlight: Piney Knob TrailsNews Date: 2026-02-07For this Trail Spotlight Saturday, we highlight the Piney Knob Trail System in Murphy. With over 15 miles of trails, the winter season offers unique “leaf-off” views of the 700-acre watershed property that are hidden during the summer months.

Sources:2026-02-07 | https://www.townofmurphync.com/community/page/piney-knob-trails

Regional: Blue Ridge Parkway ClosuresNews Date: 2026-02-06Winter weather has led to the closure of several sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Travelers are advised to check real-time gate status before planning any mountain drives this weekend.

Sources:2026-02-06 | https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/roadclosures.htm

Appalachia Daily Update is your hyper-local source for the news that matters to our mountains. We focus on community safety, local government, and the neighbors who make this region home. Take care of your neighbors, and they will take care of you. https://go.riverrun.digital

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit appalachiadaily.substack.com

Weather Advisory: The Flash Freeze

While today brings a welcome thaw with a high of 51°F in Murphy, residents are advised to prepare for a “flash freeze” tonight. Temperatures will drop to 26°F, turning daytime melt into dangerous black ice by Saturday morning.

Soundcheck Friday: Regional Highlights

The music scene is fully operational across Area 1 and 2 tonight. Highlights include:

* Blue Ridge: Gregg Erwin at Tooney’s Music Venue.

* Blairsville: Galentine’s Party at Ruby Kate’s (6:30 PM).

* Murphy: Acoustic sets at Buck Bald Brewing.

* Hayesville: Live music and jams near the historic square and Copper Door.

School and Community News

Fannin County and Clay County (NC) school systems have returned to normal operations today, February 6. Additionally, the North Georgia Mountain Crisis Network’s “Love, Honor, Cherish” Gala is set for February 28th. Murphy’s downtown revitalization efforts are also in focus with the upcoming NC Main Street Conference.

Sources:2026-02-06 | https://support.google.com/websearch/answer/136878742026-02-06 | https://www.unation.com/event/ruby-kates-galentine-party-63206381/2026-02-05 | https://www.fannin.k12.ga.us/all-news2026-02-03 | https://www.clayschools.org/apps/events/2026/2/3/35969823/?id=02026-01-31 | https://www.escapetoblueridge.com/blog/february-events-20262026-02-03 | https://www.commerce.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2026/02/03/25-years-educational-excellence-nations-leading-statewide-downtown-revitalization-conference

Appalachia Daily Update is your hyper-local source for safety and community news. Visit https://go.riverrun.digital for more.

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit appalachiadaily.substack.com